How to Get the Best out of Your Trip to Koh Phangan – Don’t miss the hidden gems!

As one of Thailand's most popular beach holiday destinations, Koh Phangan has been a firm favourite among honeymooners and young travellers for decades. Synonymous for its over-the-top full-moon parties and exquisite beaches, there's more to do in this sun-kissed island in Thailand than hitting the beach or partying till the sun comes up. From exploring the island's best attractions to discovering its hidden gems, here are some tips on how to make the most of your getaway to Koh Phangan.

Per Meistrup, Full-Moon-Party-2016 DSC03418cropw, CC BY-SA 4.0

Wine and Dine at the Thong Sala Night Market

Tipped to be the island's best night-time thoroughfare, the Thong Sala Night Market is a one of a kind food hotspot for tourists. Offering visitors a plethora of local and international favourites, the venue is a sprawling heartland for foodies like no other. Lined with stalls retailing everything from classic Thai noodles dishes to pizzas, grilled items, falafels and sushi platters, one would be hard-pressed to find a more affordable location to grab a bite in Koh Phangan Island. In addition to being a thriving culinary hub the atmosphere and the community of diners and vendors that congregate at the market have made it a veritable cultural institution so even if one is not keen at the prospect of dining from food carts and stalls, a tour of the Thong Sala Night Market is a rite of passage no tourist should miss.

Sign Up for a Massage at Herbal Sauna Baan Tai

Housed within a larger than life tree that dates back centuries, the Baan Thai Sauna was first established by the priests from Wat Pho Temple. With an impressive diameter of 14m, the tree, which is the largest tree in the entire island, offers spa-goers the chance to experience a massage in a truly "natural" setting. Encircled by a scenic garden, visitors can tour the spa from 2 pm to 9 pm when the venue is also open for business. Those who wish to work in a relaxing massage with the visit should aim to arrive at the Baan Thai Sauna in the evening hours as the location is too warm to enjoy a sauna or massage session during the heat of day.

Catch the Sunset at Amsterdam Bar

Often described as one of the finest sights in all of Koh Phangan, catching the sunset from the island's famed Amsterdam Bar is a true treat for the senses. Although there are a great many locations from which to witness this daily miracle, the Amsterdam Bar offers the best views by far and also allows visitors to sip from a cocktail or a refreshing beverage of one's choice while enjoying the natural phenomenon in all its splendour. The bar is a highlight in its own right as Dj music and delicious grub are available towards the latter half of the day while those who wish to watch the sunset from an alternative location can head to the Secret Mountain Restaurant where Thai treats are on the menu.

Dance Away at a Half/Full Moon Party

Regarded as a must-experience activity for all holidaymakers based in Koh Phangan, dancing the night away at a full moon party of a half-moon party can be a memorable way to spend an evening on the island. Half-moon parties take place twice every month on Koh Phangan while the full moon parties hit the beaches of the island only once a month. Internationally renowned disk jockeys spin hip-hop and funk music into the wee hours of the morning while revellers party hard till the sun comes up on the beach. Those staying at Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas or any other Koh Phangan beach resort will have no trouble locating a full or half-moon party close by as the events are highly coveted occasions in the local calendar.

Beach It

As a beach Mecca for the masses, spending copious amounts of time on the pristine beaches of Koh Phangan is a must for every visitor. Don't forget to pop by Mae Haat beach and the equally captivating Chaloklum Beach.